New South Memphis Tree Removal Permit Rules

Land Use and Zoning Tennessee 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 08, 2026 Flag of Tennessee

New South Memphis, Tennessee contractors must follow city tree-removal rules before removing street or protected trees on private and public property. This guide summarizes the permitting pathway, typical application steps, which city office enforces the rules, and how to handle fines, appeals and required mitigation. Use this when preparing bids, scheduling crews, or advising property owners to avoid stop-work orders and enforcement actions. For ordinance text and permitting contacts consult the municipal code and the city forestry/permits pages below.[1][2]

Permits, Scope, and When a Permit Is Required

Contractors must determine whether the tree is on public right-of-way, a protected specimen, or subject to a development plan. Permit triggers commonly include:

  • Removal of trees in the public right-of-way or boulevard.
  • Removal of trees flagged as "protected" by a site plan or conservation overlay.
  • Tree work required as part of demolition, subdivision, or large-landscape alteration.
Always verify property ownership and right-of-way boundaries before work begins.

How Permits Are Reviewed

Applications are typically reviewed for species, size, replacement requirements, and impacts to utilities or stormwater. Reviews may require site plans, photos, and arborist reports.

  • Standard review timelines are not specified on the cited page; check the permit office for current processing time.[2]
  • Arborist reports or mitigation plans may be requested for significant trees.
  • Inspections are used to confirm species and post-removal compliance.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is carried out by the city enforcement division and/or the urban forestry or public works department. The municipal code and department pages identify the enforcing office and complaint/contact pathways.[1][2]

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation for repeat or continuing offences: not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, replanting or restoration orders, and permit revocation are typical municipal remedies; specific measures are not fully specified on the cited page.
  • Appeals and review routes: the cited resources reference administrative review and appeal to the appropriate hearings body; exact deadlines are not specified on the cited page.
  • To report violations or request inspections, contact the city code or forestry office via the official contact page listed below.[2]
If a stop-work order is issued, cease work immediately and contact the issuing officer.

Applications & Forms

The city provides permit application guidance and contact points on its permits and forestry pages. Specific named forms or fee schedules are not listed in a single ordinance page; see the permit pages for application PDFs, online submission portals, and fee information.[2]

  • Application name/number: not specified on the cited page; request the "Tree Removal Permit" or equivalent from Planning or Forestry.
  • Fees: not specified on the cited page; contact the permits office for current fee schedule.
  • Submission: typically online or at the permits counter; confirm required attachments and deadlines with the office.

Common Violations

  • Removing a right-of-way tree without a permit.
  • Failing to obtain protection or mitigation for a specimen/protected tree.
  • Ignoring stop-work orders or failing to comply with replanting orders.

FAQ

Do contractors need a separate license to remove trees in New South Memphis?
Contractor licensing for tree work may be required by the city or state; check the permits and licensing offices for contractor registration requirements.
How soon will the city inspect after I apply?
Inspection timing is not specified on the cited page; contact the permits or forestry office for typical scheduling.
Are protected species listed in the municipal code?
Species and protection criteria are set by ordinance or administrative rules; consult the municipal code and forestry guidance.

How-To

  1. Confirm tree location and ownership and check whether the tree is in the public right-of-way.
  2. Request the Tree Removal Permit application from the city permits or forestry page and prepare site photos and a site plan.
  3. Submit the application, required attachments and pay the fee; keep a copy of the submittal reference number.
  4. Schedule and pass any required pre-removal inspection; obtain written clearance or the permit before work starts.
  5. Complete removal per permit conditions, implement erosion and safety controls, and document the work with photos.
  6. Request a post-removal inspection if required and comply with any replanting or mitigation obligations.

Key Takeaways

  • Always confirm whether a permit is required before quoting or commencing work.
  • Document species, size, and location; some removals require arborist reports or mitigation.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Memphis Code of Ordinances
  2. [2] City of Memphis Forestry Division - Permits & Contacts

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